A Hidden Treasure!
The Parbold Bottle is a hidden treasure. Despite it being an important historical monument marking the development of UK democracy, and being tucked away only 200 Yards off the main road over Parbold Hill (A5209) many people don’t even know it exists! Many people who visit this popular beauty spot will see the Bottle and not know what it represents.
The nearest parking is at the layby at the top of Parbold Hill. From there walk on the footpath down the hill 300 yards towards Parbold, keeping the main road on your right, until you come to a wooden gate on your left. This is the start of the grassy track to the Bottle. Walk 200 yards along this track to find the monument situated in a beautiful spot overlooking the Douglas Valley .
The Douglas Valley Lions Club do a great job maintaining the track to the Parbold Bottle.
A Beacon for Democracy
The Bottle was built on the top of Parbold Hill for a simple reason – so that lots of people would see it! It is a reminder of the struggle for democracy in the UK.
At the restoration ceremony for the Bottle in 1958 Professor Lyon-Blease a local politician said “Far too many people of this country are ignorant of its history and it is a good thing that those who pass by this spot should be tempted to enquire why this monument is necessary”.
The quarry workers wanted to send a message of hope, that their lives could be better by being able to vote. Their cause is still highly relevant today because democracy is a never-ending process and we strive to improve our voting system.
Parbold’s Heritage
The Parbold Bottle is an important part of Parbold’s and Lancashire’s heritage. It is a reminder of the struggle for democracy by people who had no vote.
For more information about the Reform movement in Lanacashire at the time of the Great Reform Act in 1832, and after this, see the article “Demoractic Vistas” by local historial Dr Paul Salveson https://parboldbottle.org.uk/democratic-vistas-by-paul-salveson/
